Big comeback nets Skyforce a win
Published on January 29, 2006 under Continental Basketball Association 1 (CBA 1)
Sioux Falls Skyforce News Release
Gary, IN - The Sioux Falls Skyforce defeated the Gary Steelheads tonight 106-100 (5, 2) to move to 18-15 on the season. The 'Force trailed 77-56 after three quarters, but outscored the Steelheads 50-23 in the final quarter to pull off an amazing come-from-behind victory on the road. Gary dropped to 15-14 with the devastating loss.
The 'Force had to feel confident going into the game as Stephen Graham rejoined the team after his 10-day contract expired with the Chicago Bulls and they chose not to resign him. The Steelheads were ready for the challenge however as they had won eight straight contests at the Genesis Convention Center. The Steelheads won the opening quarter 28-20 behind seven points from CBA All-Star Game MVP Randy Holcomb. Gary led by as many as 14 points (48-34) with just over 3:00 to go in the first half, however, the 'Force responded with eight unanswered points to cut the deficit to 48-42 heading into the locker rooms. The 'Force won the second quarter 22-20 behind 10 points from Geno Carlisle. The Steelheads enjoyed their largest lead of the game halfway through the third quarter as they led by 23 points (67-44) and eventually went into the final quarter with a comfortable 77-56 lead. Gary won the third quarter 29-14 behind 10 points from Holcomb. The 'Force could have given up with such a large deficit but they were determined to at least make the score respectable. They would make it more than respectable as they outscored the Steelheads 41-20 to tie the game at 97 a piece with just over a minute to go in the game. After Jimmie "Snap" Hunter had his shot blocked by Chris Owens, Graham found Carlisle for a lay-up that gave the 'Force a 99-97 lead, their first lead since halfway through the opening quarter. After a defensive stop, Carlisle hit a dagger three-pointer with the shot clock running down to push the lead to 102-97. Gary responded with a quick three-pointer to cut the lead to two points, however, Carlisle finished his outstanding game with two made free throws to ice the game and the 'Force ended a successful roadtrip 3-2. Corey Williams (12 points), Mark Sanford (11 points) and Carlisle (10 points) did most of the damage in the final quarter as they combined for 33 points as the 'Force won the fourth quarter 50-23.
The Skyforce's next game is on Thursday, February 2nd, at home against the Yakama Sun Kings. Tip-off is set for 7:05 pm at the Sioux Falls Arena.
Game Highlights:
SKYFORCE:
- Geno Carlisle - 20 points, 7 assists
- Chris Owens - 10 points, 9 rebounds
STEELHEADS:
- Randy Holcomb - 22 points, 9 rebounds
- Edmund Saunders - 14 points, 10 rebounds
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Group tickets and mini-plans are on sale for the 2005-06 season. For details call a Skyforce representative at (605) 332-0605.
Continental Basketball Association 1 Stories from January 29, 2006
- Graham returns for third stint with 'Force - Sioux Falls Skyforce
- Big comeback nets Skyforce a win - Sioux Falls Skyforce
- Steelheads look for rebound win - Gary Steelheads
- Steelheads Lose 21 Point Lead, Fall to Skyforce - Gary Steelheads
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